National Parks

Nearly 160 years after John Brown raided the federal arsenal at Harpers Ferry, the National Park Service is welcoming the gift of another 13 acres that help tell Brown’s story. The American Battlefield Trust purchased property known as Allstadt’s Corner, which includes Allstadt’s Ordinary, and transferred it to Harpers Ferry National Historical Park. The donation … Read more

BECKLEY, W.Va.—Officials at the New River Gorge National Park and Preserve are anticipating increased river use and shuttle traffic during the World Scout Jamboree July 22-August 2 at the adjacent Summit Bechtel Reserve.Up to 65,000 scouts and scout leaders from more than 170 countries are expected to attend the event attend the landmark event, which … Read more

Now in its sixth year, Thurmond Train Day is growing ever-more popular as visitors to the ghost town in southern West Virginia explore its historic landmarks and discover more about railroading history and present-day railroad safety.More than 600 people attended last year’s event, drawn largely by the opportunity to visit Thurmond, West Virginia, at a … Read more

Visitors to New River Gorge National Park and Preserve who wish to travel the winding scenic route beneath the New River Gorge Bridge will be required to suffer a detour through mid-July. Part of Fayette Station Road near Fayetteville, West Virginia, will be closed while the route is repaired, repaved, and widened, according to Julena … Read more

Rangers and naturalists at seven parks in southern West Virginia will lead guided wildflower hikes on woodland trails April 26-28 during the 16th annual New River Gorge Wildflower Weekend.Ranger Jodi French-Burr stressed that the hikes and most additional events are free, and that the New River Gorge region and the New River basin is extremely rich in … Read more

Harpers Ferry National Historical Park will increase its entrance fees in 2019 and 2020 as part of the National Park Service’s efforts to address infrastructure needs and enhance visitor experiences.Effective January 1, the park’s per-vehicle fee will increase to $15, and its per-person fee will increase to $7, according to Autumn Cook, a park spokesperson.All money … Read more

National parks in southern West Virginia attracted more than 1.3 million visitors in 2017 and added more than $78 million to the local economy, according to a visitor-spending analysis.The National Park Service reported today that 1,319,420 guests had visited the New River Gorge National Park and Preserve, Bluestone National Scenic River, and Gauley River National … Read more

Fire managers for the New River Gorge National Park and Preserve in West Virginia are preparing for four prescribed fires between February 25 and May 31, weather permitting. Plans include burning four separate units ranging from five to 45 acre, according to Julena Campbell, public affairs officer for the National Park Service in southern West … Read more